Walk along any kite beach on the Red Sea and you will see dozens of logos on kites and boards. Choosing between kitesurfing equipment brands can feel overwhelming, especially when you are buying your first set. The truth is that all of the major brands make excellent gear – what matters most is choosing the right type of equipment for your weight, your level and the conditions where you ride. This guide introduces the leading names and explains what to look for.
The leading kitesurfing equipment brands
These are some of the most widely used brands you will see in Egypt and around the world. Each offers a full range, from beginner-friendly kites to high-performance gear.
- Cabrinha – a long-established brand known for stable, user-friendly freeride kites and dependable bars. Cabrinha kites are a popular choice for schools and rental centres, including ours.
- Duotone – the brand formerly known as North Kiteboarding, with a huge range of kites, twin-tips and foils for every discipline.
- Nobile – especially well known for twin-tip boards, including split boards that are easy to travel with. We use Nobile equipment in our rental fleet.
- Core – a German brand admired for its build quality and easy-handling kites.
- F-One – a French brand with strong freeride, wave and foil ranges.
- Naish – one of the pioneering names in kitesurfing, with versatile kites and boards.
- RRD – an Italian brand offering kites, twin-tips and surfboards across all levels.
- Ozone – known for innovative designs, from inflatable kites to foil kites for light wind.
How to choose the right gear
Kites
For most riders a freeride kite is the best all-rounder: easy to relaunch, stable in gusts and with plenty of depower. Freestyle, wave and big-air kites are more specialised. Pay attention to how the kite feels rather than the logo – and if possible, test a few models through a rental centre before you buy.
Bars and safety systems
Choose a bar that matches your kite brand, so the line lengths and safety system are designed to work together. Make sure the quick release is easy to operate and that you know exactly how to reassemble it.
Boards
A twin-tip is the standard choice. Larger, wider boards help in light wind and while you are learning; smaller boards feel livelier in strong wind. Split boards from brands such as Nobile are very handy for air travel.
Harnesses
Comfort is everything. Waist harnesses offer more freedom of movement, while seat harnesses suit some beginners and riders with back issues. Try several on before you decide.
New or second-hand?
Good-quality second-hand kites and boards can be excellent value, especially for a first set. Check the canopy for repairs and UV damage, inflate the kite to test the bladders, and inspect the bar, lines and safety system carefully. Avoid very old equipment: safety systems and kite designs have improved enormously in recent years.
Looking after your gear in Egypt
The Red Sea climate is perfect for kitesurfing, but strong sun and salt water take their toll on any brand of equipment:
- Keep kites out of the sun when you are not riding – UV light weakens the canopy cloth over time.
- Rinse with fresh water after every session to remove salt and sand.
- Dry before packing to prevent mould and stiff, sticky material.
- Check lines and bars regularly for wear, especially around the chicken loop and pulleys.
- Store safely – our kite storage in Hurghada keeps your equipment protected between sessions.
Ride the brands before you buy
The best way to find your favourite brand is to ride several. At Sultan Kite School you can hire well-maintained Cabrinha and Nobile kites and boards by the hour or the day, and our instructors are always happy to share honest advice. Check the live wind in Hurghada and contact us to plan your session.
You can explore the current ranges on the brands’ own websites, such as Cabrinha and Duotone.
